Even with routine maintenance, every driver faces the risk of their vehicle breaking down at some point. When this happens, staying calm and following a few basic safety procedures is crucial until you can get help or repairs completed.
Get to a Safe Location
As soon as you realize there is a problem with your vehicle’s operation, safely pull off the road and get out of the flow of traffic. If possible, exit onto a side street or parking lot rather than the shoulder of a busy highway.
If you must stop on the side of the road, get as far onto the shoulder as you safely can and turn your hazard lights on immediately. Try to park in a level, visible area away from tight turns or hills that could obstruct other drivers’ view of your disabled vehicle.
Exit the Vehicle Cautiously
Once parked, quickly survey the area around your car before exiting to ensure it is safe to get out. You do not want to step out into active traffic or other hazardous situations. Exit the vehicle from the passenger side if possible to avoid having to stand in the flow of traffic.
Use Visible Warning Signals
Setting up warning signals is one of the most important safety steps when having a breakdown. When you have a breakdown, warning triangles, flares, or LED beacons notify approaching drivers that your vehicle is stopped on the shoulder. This gives them more time to slow down and move over a lane to avoid your car.
Place the first warning signal on the shoulder or side of the road about 10-15 feet behind your vehicle. Then place two or three more signals behind that one at intervals of 30-60 feet, creating a trail leading up to your stopped car. The more advance warning for other drivers, the better.
Stay Off the Road
Once your warning signals are set up, stay off the roadway itself and remain on the shoulder or grassy area as far from traffic as possible. If working under the hood or around the vehicle, watch carefully for passing cars and be prepared to quickly get out of their path.
Use Emergency Supplies
Having some basic roadside emergency supplies in your vehicle provides options for dealing with minor issues yourself until professional help can get there.
If the breakdown is because of a dead battery, the experts at Clore Automotive say that having a portable battery pack for car jump starter lets you quickly revive and restart your car with no need a jump from another vehicle.
Call for Roadside Assistance
If your breakdown appears to require major repairs you cannot handle yourself, the safest option is to call for professional roadside assistance or a tow truck right away.
Many new vehicles come with complimentary roadside service for a limited period, otherwise you will need an active membership with AAA or another motor club that provides emergency dispatch for tow trucks, battery boosts, flat tire service, fuel delivery, and more.
Only Attempt Minor Repairs When Safe
While awaiting a tow or assistance vehicle, you may be tempted to try repairing the problem yourself if you have some automotive knowledge and tools. Only attempt minor fixes if you can complete them quickly and have a safe workspace completely off the roadway where no traffic will be approaching you.
Conclusion
Remaining alert and patient while following smart roadside safety procedures during a vehicle breakdown goes a long way toward preventing further dangerous situations. Getting your disabled vehicle promptly off the road and using visible warning signals keeps everyone protected until help can get you going again.
